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Introduction
In the galaxy of leaders from the Indian freedom struggle, many names shone on the national stage, but there were some visionaries who brought new consciousness to their state, made public welfare the cornerstone of governance, and played a unique role in building modern India. The first Chief Minister of Bihar, Dr. Shri Krishna Singh, is a symbol of such leadership. His contributions not only changed the destiny of Bihar but also strengthened the foundations of Indian democracy. He was affectionately called “Shri Babu” and respectfully known as “Bihar Kesari.”
Early Life and Education
Dr. Shri Krishna Singh was born on October 21, 1887, in the village of Maur (Sheikhpura district) in Bihar to an educated Bhumihar Brahmin farming family. From a young age, he was brilliant, disciplined, and studious. His mother passed away when he was just 5 years old, a loss that taught him resilience early in life.
For his education, he attended Munger District School and then Patna College, where he completed his graduation and M.A. He then pursued a law degree and began practicing law in 1915. However, the spirit of patriotism soon drew him away from his legal profession.
Freedom Struggle and Political Vision
His nationalist consciousness found its direction after his first meeting with Mahatma Gandhi in 1916.
He became active in the Non-Cooperation Movement of 1921 and gave up his legal practice.
Key Movements: He spent eight years in jail between 1922 and 1934.
He actively participated in the Salt Satyagraha, farmer movements, untouchability eradication, and the organizational building of Congress in Bihar.
He led relief efforts during the devastating 1934 Nepal-Bihar earthquake.
It was his powerful voice and leadership that earned him the title "Bihar Kesari".
Entry into Power in 1937 and Principled Administration
In the elections held under the Government of India Act of 1935, Congress won a majority, and on July 20, 1937, Shri Babu took the oath as the Premier of Bihar. He became the first Congress Premier in British India at that time.
When the Governor refused to release political prisoners, he resigned from his post on a matter of principle. Later, in 1939, Congress ministries resigned in protest against the Second World War.
Chief Minister of Independent India: The Era of Nation-Building (1946–1961)
When India gained independence on August 15, 1947, Dr. Singh was sworn in as the first Chief Minister of Bihar and held the position until his death in 1961. His tenure is considered the golden age of political, social, and economic transformation in Bihar.
1. Zamindari Abolition: The Beginning of a Social Revolution
Dr. Singh first took on the task of abolishing the Zamindari system.
Under the Bihar Zamindari Abolition Act 1949-50, millions of farmers were granted land ownership.
This step strengthened social justice and gave birth to a new rural consciousness.
It was the first major success of land reforms in India.
2. Upliftment of Dalits and Backward Classes: An Experiment in Equality
He personally led the movement for Dalit entry into the Baidyanath Dham temple in Deoghar.
Backward classes were given rights in reservation, scholarships for education, and admission to technical institutions.
His clear political stance against untouchability made him a true follower of Gandhian principles.
3. Development of Education and Culture
He reorganized Patna University.
Thousands of government and rural schools were established.
He donated his private library of over 17,000 books in Munger for public use, which became the Janatha Pustakalaya.
His efforts later led to the establishment of the Shri Krishna Science Centre (1978) and the Shri Krishna Memorial Auditorium in Patna.
4. Construction of Industrial Infrastructure
Rajendra Setu (1959): Bihar's first rail-cum-road bridge over the Ganga.
Barauni Refinery, Bihar State Electricity Board, Ranchi's Heavy Engineering Corporation.
Fatuha-Islampur industrial corridor.
Kosi, Aghaur, Gandak, and Sone projects for irrigation and electricity.
He promoted technical development with a scientific outlook, for which he is still remembered today.
5. Agriculture and Labor Welfare
Seed distribution, agricultural training centers, agricultural loans, and crop insurance for farmers.
Enforcement of minimum wage acts and labor protection laws for workers.
Expansion and strengthening of cooperative societies.
Role in the Constituent Assembly and National Vision
Dr. Singh was a member of the Constituent Assembly.
His discussions were particularly important on topics like:
Federal structure
State financial autonomy
Minority rights
The state's role in higher education
He worked to maintain a balance between Gandhi and Nehru and often expressed disagreement with Nehru.
A collection of his letters was published under the title “Freedom and Beyond,” which clearly reflects his vision.
Personality and Private Life
He was the epitome of simplicity—wearing a dhoti and kurta, eating simple food—yet was extremely strict in administration.
His wife, Krishna Devi, passed away in 1944.
He had two sons, Shivshankar Singh and Bandhushankar Singh, who served in administrative services.
He maintained direct communication with the public and held weekly 'Janta Darbar' (public audiences).
His residence in Munger symbolizes his public service and personal simplicity.
Death and Remembrance
He passed away on January 31, 1961, in Patna.
He was paid tribute at the Secretariat complex in Patna, and his last rites were performed with full state honors.
In his honor, the government created:
A postage stamp (1988)
Shri Krishna Singh Medical College (Begusarai)
Shri Krishna Science Centre (Patna)
Many roads, libraries, and memorials were named after him.
In 2021, the Bihar Assembly unanimously demanded that he be awarded the "Bharat Ratna".
Conclusion: The Enduring Inspiration of 'Shri Babu'
The life of Dr. Shri Krishna Singh was not just that of a Chief Minister; it was the life of an ideology, a movement, and a vision for development.
His administrative efficiency, public commitment, unwavering courage for social justice, and progressive vision for development remain a guiding light for Indian politics today. He was the first Chief Minister to make both development and ethics the core of governance.
His life is proof that the foundation of true democracy is built not just on votes, but on policies and values.
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